Ascoma of Lachnum spartinae

Ascoma of Lachnum spartinae Cantrell. This semimacro ascomycete is visible to the naked eye and quite common growing in the oldest standing-leaf sheaths of smooth cordgrass during cold, wet periods in late autumn. The ascoma (sexual-reproductive structure) is about 2 mm across, and is supported on a short stalk. Its color can range from light yellow to bright orange. Photo from old ASLO slide collection; taken by S. Newell; background provided by S. Newell; scanned by K.L. Schulz.